Pollen surges and pollution spikes have intensified during the COVID-19 lockdown, coinciding with peak allergy season. Affecting 25% of the French population, respiratory allergies demand expert attention. Here's a comprehensive guide to symptoms, prevention, and treatments.
Respiratory allergies impact 25% of the population. Warmer temperatures and persistent fine weather during the COVID-19 lockdown triggered massive pollen releases alongside a spring pollution episode, heightening allergy risks.
Pollen causes half of all respiratory allergies in France. These tiny allergenic particles trigger reactions in sensitized individuals. Tree pollen season runs from January to May (consult the pollen calendar).
Massive and diverse pollen release
Lockdown has seen high releases of birch and cypress pollen, known for their potent allergenicity. Cypresses are widespread across France, thriving in northern regions amid global warming. Pollen from plane trees, oaks, hornbeams, poplars, ashes, and soon olives—plus grasses and urticaceae—also fills the air.
Check pollen levels in your department via the RNSA map (National Aerobiological Surveillance Network).
Pollen allergies persist indoors
Even indoors, pollen allergies can flare. These microscopic particles infiltrate homes and resuspend easily from surfaces. Wind-borne (anemophilous) pollens are the most volatile and allergenic.
To minimize indoor pollen: Ventilate early morning or after dark. Clean with damp cloths to trap particles, and use a vacuum with HEPA filter (captures particles under 0.3 micrometers). Rinse hair before bed or shampoo to remove settled pollen. Avoid outdoor laundry drying during pollen season.
Beyond pollen peaks, lockdown worsens allergies via:
Indoor confinement boosts allergies to dust mites, pet dander, and insects (e.g., cockroaches).
For details, read our article on Outdoor and indoor pollution during confinement.
Cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties overlap between allergies and COVID-19, sparking concern during lockdown.
The French-speaking Pneumology Society (SPLF), in an April 14, 2020, interview with Quotidien du Pharmacien, notes allergies lack fever, chills, or loss of smell—hallmarks of COVID-19.
Consult your doctor for respiratory issues; they'll diagnose and refer if needed. Allergy management remains essential, with reimbursed teleconsultations available.
For COVID-19 info, visit the WHO dedicated page or France's Info Coronavirus site. Use the government's online symptom algorithm for guidance (not medical advice).
Treating allergies combats airway inflammation—critical during the pandemic.
The French Society of Allergology (SFA) urges continuing treatments: inhaled corticosteroids, nasal sprays, and desensitization. Do not stop.
Asthma isn't confirmed as a COVID-19 risk factor, as asthmatics aren't overrepresented. Yet, the High Council for Public Health (HCSP), in its March 23, 2020, guidance, cautions severe asthmatics against viral complications. Maintain all anti-asthmatic treatments, including corticosteroids.
For mild symptoms, start with simple, natural measures. Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Nasal washes
The WHO clarifies nasal washes don't prevent COVID-19; France's DGS (March 22, 2020) concurs absent evidence. The French ENT Society supports saline washes for viral infections if essential.
For allergies, international guidelines endorse nasal washes for allergic rhinitis. Use isotonic seawater sprays or saline pods to cleanse mucosa. Hypertonic sprays decongest; protective sprays (morning or every 6 hours) form a barrier film.
Eye washes
Physiological saline or cornflower-enriched solutions soothe irritated eyes.
